Michael Lee Benton

Michael Lee Benton of Wentzville, Missouri, passed away on Friday March 9, 2018, at the age of 51. Beloved husband of 26 years to Tammie Benton; cherished son of Jerry L. (Sherry) Benton and the late Sandy Williams; proud and devoted father of Jacob Benton and Jordan Benton; dear brother of Jeri Leigh Farrell, Keith (Debbie) Benton, Kerry Jo Brooks, Katherine Maley, Matt (Jade) Benton, Jerry (Alana) Benton, and a dedicated father figure to Steven Benton, Tyler Farrell and Zachary Farrell. Michael is preceded in death by his grandparents Norman (Jerry) Cope and Paul (Virginia) Benton. He is survived by his Uncle Don (Faye) Cope, nephew Josh Benton, (great) nieces, (great) nephews, cousins and other relatives.




Michael was a plumber and member of the Local Plumbers and Pipefitters Union 562, a member of Morning Star United Methodist Church, a member of the Pauldingville Masonic Lodge No. 11, and a beloved brother of the Southern Discomfort Motorcycle Club.  He loved being with family and friends and was often the life of the party.  He proved to have more than nine lives, taking every risk, adventure, and opportunity to defy the odds.  He loved riding his Harley (or cleaning it, staring at it or taking pictures of it!). His proudest accomplishment was his two boys and he never missed a chance to brag about their latest story or success.  Michael’s heart was bigger than can be described and he was the first to help a friend in need, a complete stranger or bring home every animal he found wandering on a job site.  Michael served in the United States Army and was passionate about his patriotic beliefs and values.  Those who knew him and loved him will know why, when he was reminded to be careful or think about what he was about to do, this was his favorite quote:




“Life’s journey is not to arrive at the grave safely in a well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, totally worn out, shouting “Holy S#%+….What a Ride!”




No words better than these to describe the man that lived life as if there was no tomorrow……




Memorial contributions may be made in Michael’s honor to Tammie Benton to organize and hold an annual Memorial Ride and awareness campaign to eliminate distracted driving.